A moment in time: New Ways of Shopping

In the 1980s, the number of products available in stores was limited. Also, customers could buy certain products only with a special "coupon" and the quantities were often restricted. Some items, like cigarettes and alcohol, were available only to customers who had special permission. But from July 29, 1988, customers could buy cigarettes and wines in Beijing without any restrictions and the stores were crowded with eager shoppers (above).

Today, a large variety of products are available not only in the shopping centers, but also over the internet. And online shopping is now very popular, especially among the younger generation (below).